Afif’s comments came during a speech marking Martyrs’ Day, where he emphasized Hezbollah’s readiness to sustain military resistance on multiple fronts, both along the border and within Lebanon.
“We are ready for a long war with the occupation at all levels,” Afif stated, adding that while international dialogue on a ceasefire has been discussed in the media, no official proposals have been communicated to Lebanon. “We are still in the testing phase,” he noted, suggesting that the current information regarding ceasefire efforts is limited to media reports.
In response to Israeli claims that Hezbollah’s military capabilities have diminished, Afif highlighted recent rocket and missile strikes by Hezbollah, reaching as far as the suburbs of Tel Aviv and Haifa. He acknowledged the use of advanced Fateh-110 missiles and hinted at the possibility of deploying additional weaponry, depending on the decision of the group’s leadership.
Afif also commented on Israel’s ground operations, which he described as largely unsuccessful, noting that Israeli forces have struggled to capture Lebanese villages near the border despite committing substantial military resources. “After 45 days of fighting... the Israeli army is still unable to occupy a single Lebanese village,” he said. Israeli forces were forced to retreat from the Lebanese town of Khiam earlier this month, underscoring Hezbollah’s continued resistance. Afif warned that the impending winter would further hinder Israeli advancements, particularly as difficult terrain and muddy conditions set in.
Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, on 11 November claimed that progress was being made toward a ceasefire in Lebanon, stating that Israel is working with the United States on a potential resolution. However, reports indicate that Israel has requested a unilateral ceasefire from Hezbollah, allowing Israeli forces continued access to Lebanese territory and airspace—a proposal reportedly rejected by Beirut.
Hezbollah’s military activities have escalated in recent weeks, with the group reporting over 100 Israeli casualties and extensive damage to military vehicles. At least three Israeli soldiers were reportedly injured on 11 November after Hezbollah launched a rocket attack on a military base in Karmiel.
While Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem recently challenged Israeli forces to advance further into Lebanon, Israeli Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi affirmed last week that the Israeli military intends to persist with ground maneuvers in the country, expanding its operations if necessary.
The ongoing conflict has intensified as Hezbollah continues to organize and increase its offensive against Israeli positions, maintaining resilience and replenishing ranks amid rising regional tensions. (ILKHA)